Bethune-Cookman is making a coaching change with the Florida Classic looming.
The Wildcats announced Sunday that they have parted ways with head coach Raymond Woodie Jr., effective immediately, ending his four-season tenure, the school announced.
The university has turned to a familiar name, appointing legendary former coach Alvin “Shine” Wyatt as interim head coach for the remainder of the 2026 season.
That includes the Florida Classic against rival Florida A&M, allowing Wyatt to lead Bethune-Cookman into one of the most important games on its schedule.
The decision signals a shift in direction for a program with ambitions of becoming a consistent contender in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
“This is a thoughtful and deliberate decision made with the long-term success and competitive future of our football program in mind,” university President Albert Mosley said. “Our expectations remain high, and our commitment is unwavering.”
Mosley added that the university intends to build a championship culture while improving the experience for its student-athletes and positioning Bethune-Cookman to compete at the top of the SWAC.
Athletic Vice President Reggie Theus thanked Woodie for his contributions, noting his connection to the university as a former player and alumnus.
“We recognize the time and commitment he has invested in our program, as both a coach and a proud alumnus,” Theus said.
Bethune-Cookman is currently 5-6 overall and 3-4 in the SWAC after Saturday’s 32-21 loss to Grambling State. The Wildcats are on a three-game losing streak.
Across four seasons (2023-26), Woodie went 16-30 overall and 12-19 in SWAC games, failing to post a winning record in any of his four seasons.
His tenure included:
- 2023: 3-8 overall, 2-6 SWAC
- 2024: 2-10 overall, 2-6 SWAC
- 2025: 6-6 overall, 5-3 SWAC
- 2026: 5-6 overall, 3-4 SWAC (before season finale)
The 2025 campaign was his most successful, as Bethune-Cookman improved by four wins and finished third in the SWAC East. However, the Wildcats couldn’t sustain that momentum in 2026
